Jaeger vs Thanos: What are the differences?

Introduction

In this analysis, we will outline the key differences between Jaeger and Thanos, two popular tools used for observability and monitoring in distributed systems.

1. Storage Strategy: Jaeger uses a centralized storage strategy where all traces and metrics are stored in a single backend storage system, while Thanos follows a decentralized storage strategy allowing storage across multiple backends.

2. Query Capabilities: Jaeger provides querying and visualization capabilities for tracing data, while Thanos focuses on long-term storage and global querying for Prometheus metrics data.

3. Data Retention: Jaeger typically has shorter data retention periods due to its centralized storage approach, whereas Thanos allows for longer data retention periods with its distributed storage setup.

4. High Availability: Thanos inherently provides high availability with its decentralized architecture and replication capabilities, while Jaeger may require additional configurations for achieving high availability.

5. Scalability: Thanos is designed for horizontal scalability with its ability to handle large volumes of Prometheus metrics data, while Jaeger may have limitations in scaling as it primarily focuses on trace data.

6. Community Adoption: Jaeger has gained significant adoption in the tracing community especially with its integration in popular frameworks, whereas Thanos is more commonly used for Prometheus metrics storage and analysis solutions.

In Summary, Jaeger and Thanos differ in their storage strategies, query capabilities, data retention, high availability, scalability, and community adoption.